Katherine Johnson
1918–2020
NASA mathematician whose calculations were critical to the success of U.S. space missions.
📖Biography
Katherine Coleman Goble Johnson was an American mathematician who made critical contributions to NASA's aeronautics and space programs. Her calculations of orbital mechanics were essential to the success of the first U.S. crewed spaceflights.
Key Achievements
Calculated trajectory for first American in space (Alan Shepard)
Verified computer calculations for John Glenn's orbital mission
Contributed to Apollo 11 moon landing calculations
Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015
Life Timeline
Born in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia
Joined NACA (precursor to NASA)
Calculated trajectory for Alan Shepard's flight
Verified calculations for John Glenn's orbital mission
Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom
Passed away at age 101
Legacy & Impact
Johnson's brilliant mathematical work helped put Americans in space and on the Moon, breaking racial and gender barriers at NASA.